Departure
Let me go gracefully through that great gateway,
With sturdy step, without a staff to lean on,
No worms gnawing at my brains or body,
A coffer full of gems of the spirit,
A golden goblet brimming with wisdom's wine,
A strong, straight back and a manly bearing,
Not wheedling or pleading for a scant crumb.
Let my life be inscribed in shining letters,
Lighting the footsteps of my folks to follow.
But, Lord, spare me the canker that devours,
To hasten me unready to my rest.
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